Allowing canines to romp off-leash in grassy public spaces can be a joyful experience for both man and beast.

However, we have serious concerns about a suggested relaxation of leash laws in Denver.

And Boulder’s experiences with dogs being allowed off-leash in open-space parks illustrates why.

A Denver woman has begun an online petition that asks city officials to consider allowing dogs off-leash in city parks early in the morning and late in the evening.

We understand the sentiment. What would be the harm during these times when parks are maybe not as heavily used?

Unfortunately, dogs frequently are not as obedient or friendly as their owners believe.

Circumstances, such as encountering another dog with a more aggressive attitude, can turn even a typically friendly hound into one that will fight. And some people are terrified of dogs. It’s not fair for a dog to approach a runner or someone pushing a stroller and instill fear in people who are merely trying to enjoy the outdoors.

There also is the issue of dog droppings, which are more easily missed by owners if the dog is farther away and perhaps even briefly out of sight.

Furthermore, the overwhelming public reaction to easing leash laws has been negative, said Lauri Dannemiller, Denver parks and recreation manager.

In Boulder, the City Council recently contemplated suggestions to tighten up its so-called green tag program, which allows dogs to be off-leash in certain open-space areas if their owners can demonstrate the dogs are under voice and sight control.

The program was created in 2006, and has been criticized as being too lax. A recent study showed about half the dogs did not respond when called by their owners.

The city parks and open-space department asked for, and received, City Council support for tightening up the program.

The modifications could include an increase in fines for violations of rules, and quicker revocations of privileges. For instance, displays of aggression or chasing wildlife could result in revocation.

We understand the attraction of allowing dogs to cruise around off-leash with their human friends.

But let’s keep in mind that Denver has 11 off-leash parks specifically for dogs, and the city is considering building more. That is where energy to make life easier for dogs and their owners should go.

Denver already is a pretty dog-friendly town, and easing leash laws isn’t the way to improve that image.